Copycat Tofu Chicken Nuggets

When it comes to chicken cravings when you are meat-free, tofu is the answer.

Whether you are following a healthier diet or want a healthier version of the classic chicken nugget, this vegan superfood is perfect. Low in fat and cholesterol, tofu is made from soybean curd and comes in various forms.

The low down on the ingredients

The trick to moreish vegan chicken nuggets is in the ingredients. Here is a concise list of what you need and how to substitute them.

• Tofu – you can’t make chicken nuggets without tofu, of course. For chicken-style nuggets, you will need to purchase a firm or extra firm tofu. Tofu should be pressed to remove excess liquid. If your tofu is too wet, it will not be as crispy as it can be. Place your tofu in a tofu press for at least 30 – 40 minutes to drain off as much liquid as possible.
• Soy sauce – Just a drizzle. Soy sauce colours and produces a light umami flavour. You can use salt instead or leave this out if you don’t have any at home. Or swap it out for mustard and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
• Onion powder, garlic powder– These essential powders create flavour and help mimic real chicken nuggets.
• Smoked paprika – Smoked paprika has a soft subtle smokey flavour; it helps colour the tofu and gives flavour. If you like spicy nuggets, add some chipotle to the smoked paprika.
• Dairy-free milk – Make sure it is unflavored and unsweetened; no one wants chocolate chicken nuggets.
• Cornstarch – Cornstarch or cornflour creates a crisp layer around the tofu. You can use a mixture of arrowroot and tapioca flour instead. Gluten-free flour mixes need a little cornstarch added to them to create the crispy layer.
• Gluten-free corn flakesor panko bread crumbs – Crushed cornflakes make the best crunch and texture. Pulse the flakes a few times in a blender. Try not to over pulse the flakes.

Vegan chicken nuggets: The secret method

Picture perfect flavoursome nuggets start with the tofu. Slice your tofu before putting it in your tofu press. This will push all the excess water out and make the crunchiest tofu. The next step is marination. Marinate your tofu in a large bowl for at least 15 minutes.

To bake or to fry is the ultimate decision. If you opt for a healthier tofu meal, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. However, if maximum flavour and crunch are what you are looking for, then prep a cast iron pot for deep frying or a cast-iron skillet for shallow pan-frying with quality vegetable oil.

Meat-free chicken nuggets: The recipe

This easy to make meal will be a hit with the whole family! Serve with a dipping sauce of sweet chili mixed into some vegan mayonnaise or a BBQ sauce, and a side of crisp, sweet potato fries!

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 3 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup gluten-free corn flakes or panko breadcrumbs
• 4 tbsp cornflour, or a blend of gluten-free all-purpose flour that has a dash of cornflour in
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup soy sauce or mustard
• Optional: 1 tsp chilli flakes, 1 tsp chipotle spices
• 1 package extra-firm tofu
• 1/2 cup dairy-free plant-based milk

Method:

Tofu prep: To prep, your tofu, cut the tofu into slices and press the tofu in a tofu press for 30 minutes at least. The less water is trapped inside the tofu, the crispier the nuggets will be.

Once the tofu is pressed, drain the liquid off. Cut the tofu into smaller bite-size chunks, place the tofu in a bowl. Drizzle over the soy sauce and allow to rest for 15 minutes. If you are using mustard, coat the tofu pieces in mustard and allow to rest.

Batter prep: In a large mixing bowl, combine the smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tbsp nutritional yeast, and the flour. Pour half of the milk into the bowl, whisk together until a thick batter forms and add more milk if it is too thick.

Place the bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes in a large bowl. Dip your tofu pieces into the batter and ensure they are well coated. Allow excess batter to drain off of the tofu, and roll the pieces in the crumb mixture.

Place the breaded tofu pieces on a prepped baking sheet.

To cook:

Airfryer: The healthiest method – Place the battered and breaded tofu pieces into an air fryer tray lined with parchment paper. Set the air fryer to cook for 15 minutes at 375 degrees F; the tofu will be golden brown and crispy.

Bake: Place the tofu on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake in the oven at 375 degrees F for 30 minutes until crisp and golden brown.

Fry: Shallow fry in a cast-iron skillet turning regularly until each side is crisp and golden brown, keep an eye on the tofu pieces to ensure they do not burn. To deep fry them drop them into the hot oil until crispy.

To serve: Drain excess oil off the tofu with paper towels. Sprinkle the tofu nuggets with nutritional yeast, and a crack of black pepper. Serve with a dipping sauce and enjoy!